Is a master’s degree in counseling worth it?
Licensed counselors help people repair family relationships, manage substance use conditions, and improve their mental health. Explore why a master's in mental health counseling is worth it, and learn how you can help people at their most vulnerable.
By: Thomas Broderick, Edited by: Rebecca Munday
Last updated: August 18, 2025
A September 2023 research study published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that half of all people worldwide experience a mental health disorder at some point in their lives. Mental health counselors are a valuable resource for people in need. These professionals are trained to identify disorders and create treatment plans.
Becoming a licensed counselor requires education and experience. Learn why earning a master's degree in counseling may be worth it, and prepare for a career helping people live better lives.
What is a master's degree in counseling?
A master's degree in counseling can prepare you for a career as a mental health counselor. Many of these programs cover different counseling methods and counseling ethics, though coursework varies by program and specialty.
Admission requirements vary, but most counseling master's programs require a bachelor's degree in psychology, counseling, or a related field.
While program completion time depends on your track, most counseling master's programs take between 18 and 36 months to complete. Toward the end of your program, you must arrange an internship in your community to fulfill practicum requirements.
Benefits of a master's degree in counseling
A master's in counseling can equip you with the knowledge you need to achieve your career goals. Earning this advanced degree may allow you to:
- Qualify for mental health counselor licensure.
- Diagnose, assess, and treat people with mental health conditions.
- Increase your earning potential.
- Practice independently.
- Access more job opportunities.
How to calculate the ROI of your degree
Your return on investment (ROI) is the financial benefit that comes with earning an advanced degree. To calculate ROI, compare a potential program's cost of attendance (COA) with the median annual salaries of various counseling professions. A good school with a low COA can help you reach a positive ROI faster than a more expensive degree.
Even if you attend an expensive school, you can still achieve a positive ROI faster than your peers by applying for financial aid. Institutional aid, private scholarships, and grants can lower your COA significantly.
How much does a master's degree in counseling cost?
A typical master's degree costs $10,000-$200,000, depending on the university and how long you need to earn your degree. Don't let the high end of this range prevent you from applying to programs. In the 2021-22 academic year, the typical graduate student attending an in-state public university paid an average of $20,513 in tuition and fees, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
How much do graduates of a master's degree in counseling make?
Many graduates find that their salary potential increases after earning their master's degree and counseling license, but everyone's experience differs.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), mental health and substance use counselors, including bachelor's and master's degree-holders, earned a median annual salary of $59,190 in 2024. The lowest 10% made less than $39,090 per year, while the highest 10% made more than $98,210. After graduation, your annual earnings may surpass your program's annual tuition cost.
Are graduates of a master's degree in counseling in demand?
The BLS projects that mental health and substance use counselor jobs will grow by 19% from 2023-33, much faster than the average 4% for all occupations. This is likely due to a growing percentage of people who need care for mental health conditions and substance use.
Should I get my master's in mental health counseling?
Answering this question requires weighing the degree's potential benefits and drawbacks. A master's in mental health counseling can be worth it for many reasons, including:
- Learning the latest counseling best practices.
- Networking with like-minded degree-seekers.
- Qualifying for licensure.
- Training for positions outside clinical practice
- Increasing your salary potential.
- Benefiting from online learning's flexibility.
- Gaining personal fulfillment.
Consider your present situation and needs before committing to a program. Your obligations (e.g., job, family) may make it difficult to start a program right now. Don't forget to calculate how student loans may impact your life after graduation.
Keep in mind that counseling isn't the only profession where you can make a positive impact on others' lives. You can also consider a master's in social work if you're interested in becoming a therapist.
Although many social workers provide counseling services, others effect positive change at the organizational and governmental levels. Work with your school's academic and career counselors to choose the degree that best aligns with your interests and career goals.